Storm sweeping strong winds into greater Chattanooga area and beyond

Storm sweeping strong winds into greater Chattanooga area and beyond

The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for East Tennessee and parts of Alabama, North Carolina and Virginia.

For this area, strong wind are expected ahead front of a cold front that is expected to move into the area early Sunday. Strong winds are most likely in upper elevations.

Strong to severe thunderstorms are also possible late tonight. Heavy rainfall and damaging winds are possible. According to an NWS forecast, "an isolated tornado also cannot be ruled out ... mainly over Southeast Tennessee and the Cumberland Plateau counties."

There is also a wind advisory in effect for northern Alabama and southeast Tennessee until 3 a.m. Sunday. The NWS warns that the areas may see "sustained south winds of 20 to 30 MPH with gusts up to 40 MPH." Stronger winds should be expected in higher elevations.

Driving may become difficult because of the wind. Strong and severe thunderstorms are also possible in northern Alabama. Minor flooding may occur in low-lying areas.